-------
What's up on the Ruta Pantera?

• Latest travel news
• Country advisories
• Travel planning
------- ------

------



Colombia
COLOMBIA ------------------------------------2075ADVISORY

Crime organizado e turismo em risco: alertas sobre roubos sistemáticos a turistas estrangeiros em Cartagena

Grupos criminosos exploram plataformas digitais, áreas históricas e falhas de controle para despojar visitantes de seus bens.

A crescente onda de crimes contra turistas estrangeiros em Cartagena tem gerado grande preocupação entre as autoridades e o setor turístico, após a divulgação de diversos casos em que visitantes foram vítimas de roubos, sequestros e extorsões por meio de esquemas cuidadosamente planejados.

As investigações conduzidas pela Procuradoria-Geral da Nação resultaram no desmantelamento de uma organização criminosa que atuava principalmente no Centro Histórico e em outras áreas turísticas da cidade, utilizando aplicativos de relacionamento e redes sociais como principal meio de contato com cidadãos estrangeiros.

De acordo com os registros judiciais, os criminosos marcavam encontros aparentemente consensuais com as vítimas, muitas das quais desconheciam a dinâmica urbana e os riscos associados a determinadas regiões. Após o encontro, os turistas eram levados a municípios periféricos da área metropolitana, como Turbaco, onde eram mantidos sob ameaça e despojados de seus pertences.

As autoridades confirmaram que o grupo não se limitava ao furto de objetos pessoais, mas também obtinha acesso a cartões bancários, senhas e aplicativos financeiros, conseguindo esvaziar as contas das vítimas em poucas horas. Durante as operações policiais, foram apreendidos diversos cartões bancários internacionais que, segundo a investigação, pertenciam a turistas estrangeiros.

Um dos casos mais graves associados a essa estrutura criminosa foi o assassinato de um cidadão de nacionalidade russa, episódio que elevou o nível da investigação e evidenciou o grau de violência a que esses crimes podem chegar. Segundo a Procuradoria, o homicídio teve como objetivo garantir a impunidade e impedir que a vítima apresentasse denúncia.

Paralelamente, vídeos divulgados nas redes sociais e na imprensa local mostram roubos ocorrendo em espaços públicos emblemáticos, como o Parque Centenário, onde turistas foram despojados de celulares e objetos de valor em plena via pública, mesmo com a presença de transeuntes.

Esses episódios geraram preocupação entre moradores e comerciantes do Centro Histórico, que exigem maior presença policial, patrulhamento permanente e estratégias preventivas voltadas à proteção do turismo, uma das principais atividades econômicas da cidade.

A Polícia de Turismo informou que intensificou as operações de controle e as campanhas de conscientização direcionadas aos visitantes, recomendando evitar encontros com desconhecidos contatados por aplicativos, não portar objetos de alto valor em locais públicos e denunciar imediatamente qualquer situação suspeita.

Especialistas em segurança alertam que esse tipo de criminalidade segue um padrão regional, no qual organizações combinam tecnologia, inteligência prévia e o conhecimento da vulnerabilidade do turista para maximizar o impacto econômico dos delitos.

Enquanto os processos judiciais avançam, o caso reacende o debate sobre a responsabilidade compartilhada entre autoridades, plataformas digitais e o setor turístico para garantir condições de segurança compatíveis com a projeção internacional de Cartagena como destino cultural e patrimonial do Caribe colombiano.

By Heydi Bernal for Ruta Pantera on 1/2/2026 5:20:20 AM

×


Please leave a comment about this article:
Enter your email address:
Your email will not be displayed.
Your nickname:
Your comment:
Was this article helpful to you?
 



News Photo
VENEZUELA -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
The "New" Venezuela Government Inherits an Economy in Critical Condition

Structural Collapse Presents Deep Challenges for Any Future Administration (or Occupying Country)

Venezuela’s economy presents an extremely fragile outlook that will confront whoever governs the country next, regardless of political orientation. Years of hyperinflation, ... [read more.]



News Photo
WORLD -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
Trump Moves to Withdraw the United States from a Core Global Climate Treaty

The decision makes the U.S. the first country to formally exit the treaty underpinning international climate cooperation.

President Donald Trump has taken a decisive step to withdraw the United States from one of the most fundamental climate treaties in the international system, marking a major s... [read more.]



News Photo
LATIN AMERICA -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
Investors Bet on Latin America After U.S. Moves in Venezuela and Argentina

Financial markets show optimism as political shifts prompt expected reforms.

Financial markets across Latin America are showing renewed optimism following political developments in Venezuela and Argentina, according to analysts tracking investor sentim... [read more.]



News Photo
VENEZUELA -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
State of Emergency in Caracas After the Capture of Nicolás Maduro

The presence of security forces, armed pro-government groups, and restrictions on the press mark the first days after the U.S. operation

The center of Caracas and several strategic areas have seen a visible increase in the presence of security forces and armed groups aligned with Chavismo following the capture ... [read more.]



News Photo
HEMISPHERE -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
Sundance 2026 Opens the Cultural Calendar of the Western Hemisphere

The Festival Reinforces Its Role as a Key Platform for Independent Cinema and Emerging Social Narratives

The Sundance Film Festival is preparing to hold its 2026 edition from January 22 to February 1 in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, once again consolidating its position as ... [read more.]



News Photo
HEMISPHERE -------------------------------- NEWS STORY
The Capture of Nicolás Maduro Divides the Western Hemisphere

Governments, International Organizations, and Regional Actors React to an Event That Reshapes the Political Balance in the Americas

The capture of Nicolás Maduro by United States forces has triggered immediate and widespread repercussions across the Western Hemisphere, becoming one o... [read more.]


Photo
COLOMBIA -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Crime Puts Tourism at Risk in Cartagena: More Robberies Targeting Foreigners

Criminal Groups Exploit Digital Platforms, Historic Areas, and Security Gaps to Strip Tourists of Their Belongings

The growing wave of crimes against foreign tourists in Cartagena has raised serious concerns among authorities and the tourism sector, following the disclosure of multiple cas... [read more.]


Photo
WORLD -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Four Letters on Your Boarding Pass That Can Change Your Airport Experience

If You See “SSSS” on Your Boarding Pass, Prepare for an Extra Security Screening

If you notice the letters “SSSS” on your boarding pass at the airport, it’s not just another code: it means you have been selected for a much more thorough security chec... [read more.]


Photo
HEMISPHERE -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Trump Warns Petro Will Be “Next” in His Regional Campaign

Tensions Rise Between the United States and Colombia Amid Drug and Security Pressures

Remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump directed at his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, have reignited political tensions and raised concerns over bilateral relations in ... [read more.]


Photo
NORTH AMERICA -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Racism Directed at Indian Americans

Verbal Attacks Increase After Diwali Festival Messages

In recent weeks, members of the Indian American community have been targeted by racist attacks that have gone viral on social media following public posts related to the Diwal... [read more.]


Photo
COSTA RICA -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Costa Rica On Alert: Rising Crime Threats Against Foreigners Concern U.S. Embassy

Tips for Tourists and Residents Amid Thefts and Scams

The United States Embassy in Costa Rica has issued a security alert for its citizens following a rise in crimes targeting tourists and foreign residents. Reported incidents in... [read more.]


Photo
VENEZUELA -------------------------------- ADVISORY
Venezuela Revokes Flight Permits for Six Airlines Amid Growing Tensions With the United States

Move Deepens Bilateral Rift

Venezuela has revoked the operating rights of six international airlines after they suspended flights to and from the country following a safety advisory issued by the U.S. Fe... [read more.]


News Photo
WORLD -------------ID:2091------------- TRENDING
China and Panama: Tension over Control of Strategic Ports

Beijing Demands Majority Stake in Negotiations Over Port Terminals Near the Panama Canal

Imagine walking along the Balboa or Cristóbal docks, where gigantic containers tell stories of goods connecting Asia and the Americas.

Now imagine that those same do
... [read more.]


News Photo
COLOMBIA -------------ID:2054------------- TRENDING
Writers Withdraw from Hay Festival in Protest Over Invitation to María Corina Machado

Several Authors Withdraw From the Cartagena Literary Festival Over Controversy Surrounding Venezuelan Nobel Laureate

Several prominent authors have announced they will not participate in the Hay Festival Cartagena 2026 after the event invited María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition ... [read more.]


News Photo
HEMISPHERE -------------ID:2031------------- TRENDING
What Motivates María Corina Machado to Support Donald Trump's Offensive Against Vessels in the Caribbean?

Surprising Alliance

Latin American politics has taken a troubling turn with the recent statements by María Corina Machado, who, at a forum in Miami, described the Trump administration's naval ... [read more.]


News Photo
PERU -------------ID:1787------------- TRENDING
How Peru Turned One of the World’s Driest Deserts into a Major Agro-Export Hub

Ica Went from Barren Dunes to Intensive Fruit Crops

For decades, the vast desert plains of Ica seemed inhospitable: dust, sand, and ocean were predominant, with no sign they could become fertile lands. (teletica.com)

H
... [read more.]


News Photo
BOLIVIA -------------ID:1953------------- TRENDING
Bolivia Reviews Lithium Contracts with China and Russia

The President is Pushing for a Review of Investment Agreements

Rodrigo Paz, Bolivia's president-elect, announced that he will review lithium contracts signed with Chinese and Russian companies as part of a strategy to increase transpare... [read more.]


News Photo
MEXICO -------------ID:1973------------- TRENDING
Mexico Denounces Multi-Million Dollar Digital Operation Behind the “Generation Z”

Government Accuses International Disinformation Campaign

The Mexican government has linked a protest march on November 15 by young people who identify as part of “Generation Z” to an alleged international disinformation campaign... [read more.]


News Photo
UNITED STATES -- NEW YORK --------------------- TRIP IDEAS
The Tradition of the New Year’s Eve Ball in New York

A Centuries-Old Ritual that Unites the World in Annual Renewal

The lowering of the ball in Times Square has become one of the most iconic and universal events of New Year’s Eve celebrations. Every December 31, this... [read more.]


News Photo
LATIN AMERICA -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
LATAM Women's Economic Forum: Empowering Leaders and Breaking Barriers

A Space to Strengthen Female Leadership, Economic Equality, and Sustainable Well-Being in Latin America

When a room fills with voices that dream of transforming economies and societies, something profound is happening: it's not just an event; it's a mov... [read more.]


News Photo
NORTH AMERICA -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
Watching Whales at Peace

Responsible Places to Observe them in North America

Watching whales in the wild is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, but also one of the most risky to the animals. According to Whale and Dolphin Conservation, 78%... [read more.]


News Photo
NORTH AMERICA -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
Planning Your Nerdy New York Adventure

Comic Con Comes to the Big Apple

Enter body_explanationNew York City, the city that never sleeps, is a paradise for fans of pop culture, comics, science fiction, and video games. Known as the capital of the w... [read more.]


News Photo
NORTH AMERICA -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
Risks in Alaska’s Glaciers

Ice Melt Tourism The Ephemeral Beauty That Conceals Unpredictable Dangers

Risks in Alaska’s Glaciers Ice Melt Tourism The Ephemeral Beauty That Conceals Unpredictable Dangers By Jazmin Agudelo Alaska’s glaciers attract thousands of tourists ... [read more.]


News Photo
MEXICO -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
Cancún and the Riviera Maya: Your Perfect Romantic Getaway

Discover why Canadian and international travelers are flocking to this region for weddings, romantic escapes, and unforgettable experiences in 2025.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and unique experiences, Cancún and the Riviera Maya are the ultimate choice. In 2025, th... [read more.]


News Photo
NORTH AMERICA -------------------------------- TRIP IDEAS
The Ancient Library of the Internet

Welcome to the World’s Largest Web Archive

In the heart of San Francisco’s Richmond District, just a few blocks from the Presidio and the foot of the Golden Gate, stands an imposing white building with eight Gothic c... [read more.]



News Photo
BRAZIL ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
São Paulo's Biennial Art Show

A Global Contemporary Art Exhibition & Dialog

When: September 6, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Where: São Paulo, Brazil
Highlights: One of the wor

Explore More: The São Paulo Biennial is the epicenter where contemporary art redefines its boundaries and the city beco... [read more.]



News Photo
COLOMBIA - CARTAGENA ---------------- CULTURAL EVENT
FICCI 2026 - Cartagena International Film Festival

Cinema, Red Carpets and Caribbean Charm

When: March 25-30, 2026
Where: Cartagena, Colombia
Highlights: Screenings, red carpets, and works

Explore More: Dive into Latin America’s oldest film festival set against Cartagena’s stunning colonial backdrop. Atte... [read more.]



News Photo
BRAZIL - RIO DE JANIERO ---------------- CULTURAL EVENT
The Rio Carnival 2026

Samba Spectacle

When: February 13 - 22, 2026
Where: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Highlights: Samba parades, extravag

Explore More: Welcome to the Rio de Janeiro Carnival - the biggest party on the planet! Carnival is nothing less than th... [read more.]



News Photo
BRAZIL ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
Círio de Nazaré – Brazil’s Largest Religious Procession

Faith in Motion

When: October 11, 2026
Where: Belém, Brazil
Highlights: Millions join a moving procession honori

Explore More: The Círio de Nazaré is Brazil's most moving expression of faith, an event where devotion becomes a hum... [read more.]



News Photo
COLOMBIA ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
Semana Santa 2026 - Holy Week in Popayán

Devotion and Pageantry

When: March 29 – April 4, 2026
Where: Popayán, Colombia
Highlights: Religious processions, can

Explore More: Discover Colombia’s rich religious heritage during Holy Week in Popayán. Witness elaborate processions f... [read more.]



News Photo
UNITED STATES - SANTA CLARA ---------------- SPORTS EVENT
Super Bowl LX - American Football Final

Sport, Music And Spectacle

When: February 8, 2026
Where: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California, USA
Highlights: NFL cham

Explore More: The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of American sports and entertainment. Cheer alongside passionate fans, witne... [read more.]



News Photo
UNITED STATES - COACHELLA ---------------- MUSIC EVENT
Coachella 2026 - Music and Arts Festival

Music, Fashion and Desert Vibes

When: April 10 – 12 and April 17 – 19, 2026
Where: Indio, California, USA
Highlights: World-c

Explore More: Coachella is more than a music festival—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Experience performances by top arti... [read more.]



News Photo
COLOMBIA - BOGOTÁ ---------------- CULTURAL EVENT
FILBo 2026 - Bogotá International Book Fair

Literature and Creativity

When: April 23 – May 7, 2026
Where: Bogotá, Colombia
Highlights: Authors, publishers, and read

Explore More: FILBo invites visitors to immerse themselves in one of Latin America’s largest literary gatherings. Atten... [read more.]



News Photo
WORLD ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
Pride Month 2026 - Global Celebration of Diversity

Color, Unity and Freedom

When: June 1 – 30, 2026
Where: Major cities worldwide
Highlights: Parades, music festivals, and

Explore More: From New York’s dazzling parades to São Paulo’s vibrant festivities, Pride Month celebrates diversity,... [read more.]



News Photo
BRAZIL ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
Festas Juninas – Brazil’s Winter Traditions

A Country Lit by Tradition

When: June 13 – 29, 2026
Where: Across Brazil
Highlights: A nationwide celebration honoring thr

Explore More: The Festas Juninas are the warm embrace of the Brazilian winter, a season when the entire country ignites ... [read more.]



News Photo
BRAZIL ----------------------------- CULTURAL EVENT
Parintins Festival – Amazonian Cultural Spectacle

Legends Come Alive

When: June 26 – 28, 2026
Where: Parintins, Amazonas, Brazil
Highlights: The vibrant competition

Explore More: The Parintins Festival is a deep heartbeat born in the Amazon and resonating throughout Brazil, a celebrat... [read more.]





TravelDesk Finder
(Find past news, advisories and travel trends here.)
1.  Select a country


2.  Select category [example: "News Story"]


3.  Enter a keyword [example: "soccer" or "mexico city"]




            promotion